CT Colonography

Virtual colonoscopy using CT imaging to examine the colon and rectum for polyps and colorectal cancer. A non-invasive alternative to traditional endoscopic colonoscopy, performed without sedation.

CT colonography — also known as virtual colonoscopy — at DIE RADIOLOGIE uses multi-slice CT to create detailed cross-sectional and three-dimensional images of the colon and rectum. The technique can identify polyps, masses, and structural abnormalities that are relevant to colorectal cancer screening without requiring endoscope insertion or sedation. The examination involves insufflation of the colon with carbon dioxide to distend the bowel walls, followed by a rapid CT acquisition in both supine and prone positions. Post-processing software generates fly-through views of the colonic interior that the reporting radiologist navigates to identify polyps and other findings, supplemented by standard cross-sectional images that also capture extra-colonic abnormalities in the abdomen and pelvis. Bowel preparation is required before the examination, typically involving a low-residue diet and a laxative regimen in the 24 hours prior. The scan itself takes only minutes, with no recovery time needed afterwards — patients can return to normal activities immediately, unlike sedation-based endoscopy. CT colonography is particularly suited to patients who prefer a non-invasive screening approach, those with medical contraindications to sedation, or individuals who have had incomplete traditional colonoscopy. If significant polyps are detected, a follow-up endoscopic colonoscopy may be recommended for biopsy and removal. The service is available at DIE RADIOLOGIE's CT-equipped locations in Munich.